Situated just a few minutes’ walk from the Snowdon Mountain railway station, beside Padarn Park, this little railway offers a very scenic trip along Lake Padar.
Although Llanberis Lake Railway as a tourist attraction was established in 1971, the track bed was used as far back as the 1820’s and the tiny steam engines, lovingly restored, are typical of the little workhorses that once toiled in the local quarries, hauling slate rather than passengers.
The round trip from Llanberis to Penllyn takes about an hour. Groups are made very welcome on this railway and their season has recently been extended to accommodate them. Although the carriages are quite small, the railway is proud of its specially adapted wheelchair carriages which have earned it a place in the Rough Guide to Accessible Britain. Advanced booking is recommended as the line is popular. There are several events during the year.
The main station is at Gilfach Ddu where there is a café and gift shop. The station is adjacent to the Welsh Slate Museum and the Old Quarry hospital is also worth a visit.
What else is in the area?
From Llanberis, it is only a short drive to the historic walled town of Caernarfon with its castle and just a little further, the Isle of Anglesey offers an attractive half day tour. No heritage lines but how about a visit to a little station with a big name – Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch!
Main periods of operation: Open from mid-February to early December, Tues/Weds throughout, then Daily from Easter to end October (except Sat’s in April, May, Sept, Oct & Fri’s in Oct).
Coach parking facility: free coach park at Gilfach Ddu station for 12+ coaches, shared with Welsh Slate Museum. Principal Group Rates: Adult /senior return £ 6.40; child return £3.20 Number of passengers required for Group Rate: Min: 20 Max: 150
Catering available for Groups: Self-service café at Gilfach Ddu station for lunchtime meals, light snacks & afternoon teas; seating for 56.
Contact name for Group Bookings: Emlyn Pritchard
Llanberis Lake Railway
Gilfach Ddu, Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4TY
Tel: 01286 872028 • Fax 01286 870549
E mail: sales@lake-railway.co.uk
www.facebook.com/LlanberisLakeRailway
Twitter – @LakeRailway
